July 4 fireworks and festivals surround Bluffton

PALS drops Bluff Fest, return in works for next year.

Bluffton's early-bird Independence Day fireworks show has fizzled with Bluff Fest's hiatus, so it's back to the tradition of heading out of town for public fireworks displays.

There are plenty to choose from all around Bluffton on Sunday. They include Hilton Head, with its three displays at north, mid and south-island spots.

Or you can head north across the Broad River for displays in Port Royal and at Parris Island.

Another option is to head south and try River Street in Savannah.

Or pick a boat landing or other spot on Mackays Creek or the May or Colleton rivers with a clear view of the surrounding skies, or try a place near Sun City's display, and save the drive.

In the past two years, Bluff Fest, an old-fashioned festival, took place on the Saturday before July 4 on the Bluffton High School grounds. The primary organizer was Beaufort County's Parks and Leisure Services department, which benefited from the event, and the town of Bluffton and other partners, including Bluffton Today, helped out.

PALS Director Christina Roberson said Friday that PALS' reorganization to consolidate into one department, rather than be split into north-county and south-county units, and staffing and restructuring restrictions prevented having the festival this year.

"We'll reevaluate whether or not we do it next year depending on funds and staffing, and I'd love to do it in partnership with the town," she said.

According to Tim Anderson, Bluffton Today publisher, work is under way for a new plan that will bring fireworks back to Bluffton next year.

"This event is needed in Bluffton. We worked hard to get it started, and we will bring it back," Anderson said.

Where: Based at Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks off Squire Pope Road.

Details: Fireworks from a barge on the Intracoastal Waterway/Skull Creek. Free parking and shuttle service, 6-10 p.m., from the Boys & Girls Club on Gum Tree Road. Food and beverages are available. No coolers allowed.